The Toi Ora Story

In 1995, Toi Ora was started in a small factory space above a spectacles shop in Mount Eden by people with a lived experience of mental health challenges. By 2009, Toi Ora moved to its current Grey Lynn location, realising a long-held dream of adding gallery space to the offerings.

With more space and funding for resources, Toi Ora has been able to provide an increasingly diverse programme of classes covering the arts spectrum. Each year, new and exciting courses are introduced to inspire and support our artists. Toi Ora has been making a difference and positive impact within the wider community for over 25 years.

What we do

Toi Ora empowers participants to proactively uplift their mental wellbeing through a practical approach to creativity. Professional tutors provide a supportive and inclusive environment in their visual and performing arts classes to promote personal growth, connection and wellbeing at our studio and gallery in Grey Lynn and off-site.

Toi Ora is an award-winning arts organisation, providing innovation and leadership in the field of creativity for mental health recovery. We bridge the gap for those who come into contact with mental health, addiction, and other support services with the exploration of creativity as a proven means to enhance recovery and maintain wellbeing. Toi Ora opens a pathways to personal recovery, peer support, training and career opportunities.

Our strategic plan

A strategic plan developed in consultation with stakeholders, including our artists, underpins all of Toi Ora’s work. Our strategic approach focuses on what matters to the mission: the impact on the community we serve and the differences we can make to the lives of vulnerable people. Our programme echoes the “five ways to well-being” model of mental health: connect, take notice, keep learning, be active, give.